Musicalfurnishings.com

The rumba table, a simple modular design which each individula module providing a different percussion sound. 
This would be ideal for small groups of people to use in a sensory environment, encouraging relaxation and development of social skills.
I believe the use of this product with a trained music therapist would provide great benefits for the users and caregivers alike.

'Music therapy Wiki'

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Music_therapy#United_Kingdom

'Addicted to music therapy'

(Image Source)

Source Article

A percussion instrument designed by the drummer from 'Jane's addiction' designed to be able to be used by anybody, but specifically for use by those with limited dexterity and little ability to grip traditional instuments.

Essentially a bag of marbles with a velcro strap, used to make sounds but would also provide a tactile sensation with the marbles rolling and rubbing against the users hand.

'Caring for someone with Dementia'

A guide provided by the NHS for caring for elderly people who suffer from dementia, covers the introduction of a routine and the importance of encouraging and engaging them mentally and giving them a feeling of self worth.

The guide also advises trying to create a relaxed environment and helping them to engage in activities which they used to enjoy. Another key point is that the introduction of a pet an have a strong positive impact on the person being cared for, however things should also be kept simple in order to minimise confusion. For example conversations should be kept to a maximum of a few people to allow the person being cared for to keep up with the conversation.

SourceArticle

'NHS Advice for caring for SEN children'

Advice document provided by the NHS primarily for parents of children with S.E.N. encourages the inclusion of children within every day activities and family activities to help them learn.

Alongside this it is also suggested that games and playful activities will also benefit the child in that it will enable them to develop good interpersonal relationships and social skills.


The article also highlights the point that children with S.E.N. are often subject to a modified of different curriculum. This could open further markets for sensory system if it holds the ability to promote interaction between ALL children within a class or activity.

Source 

'Experimental Percussion'

Full Article

Percussion instrusments are expressive, tactile and stimulating instruments which can help children learn, the article (linked above) looks at a specific example within a school with children using instruments to mimic or represent the sounds created by animals.

The idea of percussion could be useful if the instrument is disguised within a sensory system, potentially including a reaction between the tactile input and a light/sound output.

'Percussion Therapy instruments'  

'Laser Effects'

Laser pointer effects - DragonLasers.com

Interesting effects created using a laser pointer, melting plastic.
Alternative method of creating similar effects?

'Relaxation Classes'

"Our daily lifestyle and routine can affect our bodies and minds. We can reduce stress and tension by making some simple adjustments including improving eating habits. You will learn some simple Relaxation, Breathing Techniques and Home Therapies to reduce physical and mental stress and tension, increasing concentration, focus and confidence as well as relaxation and restful sleep."

Potential to include a method of helping the user control their breathing alongside the other sensory stimulation to further calm and relax the user. (investigate other stress relief methods)

Source Website

'RelaxStyle Lamp'

 

Gizmodo - Gadget Site

My coursemate Scott Meehan, Showed me this product whilst discussing projects. 

This simple projection lamp uses textured glass and a light to create a 'under sea' feel with its projections, providing a relaxing environment on any wall or surface. 

A demonstration of how simply projections can be made to provide good simple effects. 

'Relaxation Station'

My Coursemate (Scott Meehan) brought this product to my attention whilst discussing projects.

Combining the use of Aromatherapy, Lights and Sounds to help relax the user in a simple compact product.

Useful in terms of a sensory system as it shows the basics are able to be produced and confined to a relatively small product. However the product is not overly interactive or attractive and doesn't provide any source or learning or education for the user, therefore limiting its use within a sensory environment. 

However it seems it would be relatively effective within its primary purpose which is to provide relaxation to its user.

Technabob Website 

'Sound Control'

 

Inamge source: www.gak.co.uk

Sound contol foams,used in professional recording studios to limit reverb and deaden bass frequencies.

Sensory items could be designed usin foam initially as a tactile device, but also to be used with speakers etc to have some control over the sound that is being produced.

'Passive or Active'

 

Passive Amplification is a means of amplifying sound without the use of additional power, (Passive speakers are simply speakers which do not have their own amplifier) therefore opening potential for the sound to be amplified cheaply and reliably.

With sound being amplified by the chamber in which it is produced it is possible to increase the volume of the sound produced from a low volume output such as a phone speaker.

It could also be possible to interact with the shape of the chamber to change the sound that is produced from the product, possibly with the use of another product. (Such as a trumpet player with a mute)

However, powered amplification offers some benefits within a sensory system in that it would allow greater control for those with limited mobility, whilst also allowing for the speakers to be used to offer stimuli in the way of vibrations and air disruption.

Sensory Suitcase

 

The Sensory Suitcase

A complete sensory system of individual items able to be packed into a suitcase sized holdall.

Price - £1199 for the basic model

Variety of packages included a range of equipment. 

Full details here

Potential for a complete system to be produced and contained within a suitcase sized holdall/box which can be used within the box rather than unpacking individual elements of the equipment.